New Speaker Jacob Oboth-Oboth Faces High Expectations Amid Parliament Reform Promises

Kampala, May 26, 2026 - Newly elected Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth-Oboth has pledged wide-ranging reforms aimed at restoring transparency, accountability, and public trust in Uganda’s legislature, even as analysts question his ability to confront entrenched political interests.

Upon assuming office, Oboth-Oboth outlined a seven-point reform agenda focused on zero tolerance for corruption, stronger accountability systems, evidence-based legislative debate, results-oriented budgeting, improved public engagement, and enhanced oversight of public funds.

He also promised to open up Parliament’s operations to the public and strengthen media engagement as part of efforts to rebuild institutional credibility.

However, political analysts and critics remain skeptical about the feasibility of his reform ambitions within an institution long accused of being shaped by patronage networks and executive influence.

Veteran MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda warned that expectations of radical change may be unrealistic, arguing that the Speaker operates within deeply entrenched parliamentary structures.

He cautioned that meaningful reform would depend on how Oboth-Oboth manages key institutional processes, particularly the Appointments Committee and budget-related decisions.

Ssemujju also raised concerns about long-standing issues such as discretionary spending and parliamentary allowances, suggesting that structural changes would be required to meaningfully curb corruption.

Some lawmakers, however, have urged patience and a more measured assessment of the new Speaker’s performance.